Headaches: Understanding the Cost and Causes

Headaches are a common issue for many people and can range from mild to severe. According to the International Headache Society, headaches affect 57% of men and 76% of women every month, with migraines alone costing over $13 billion per year due to lost productivity and work time. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of headaches, their causes, and when it may be necessary to seek medical attention.

Primary and Secondary Headaches

Headaches can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary headaches are not associated with other underlying conditions and are usually caused by changes in blood flow, increased metabolism, and muscle tension. On the other hand, secondary headaches are caused by other conditions such as head trauma, subdural hematoma, meningitis, and more. It is important to rule out these secondary headaches to ensure that proper treatment is received.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches are a type of primary headache that is caused by pain originating in the neck and radiating to the head. They are usually experienced on the same side of the head and are characterized by dull, background pain that does not interfere with sleep. Stiffness in the neck and decreased cervical range of motion are common symptoms, and the headache can be triggered by prolonged awkward positions or repeated movements of the head.

Proposed Mechanisms for Cervicogenic Headaches